Friendship

Friendship

He revealed his character to Moses and his deeds to the people of Israel.

Psalm 103:7

I never noticed the wealth in this one little verse until I began memorizing Psalm 103. Because I’m a slow memorizer, I need to repeat each phrase over and over before the words become a part of me. While I was out walking one day (which is when I memorize the best), I mulled this verse over in my mind. I thought it was curious that God revealed his character to Moses and his deeds to the people of Israel because the two things are somewhat different.

Although character and deeds are related, it’s more intimate to know something about a person’s character than his actions. If I explained my son Jordan’s deeds to you, I might say, “He golfs, he goes to high school, he goes to youth group at church, and he plays the trumpet, guitar, and accordion.” That would tell you what he does. But what if I described Jordan’s character? What if I told you that he is kind, patient, polite, entertaining, and innovative? Wouldn’t you know more about him?

When we describe someone’s deeds, we convey their achievements, their acts, and their accomplishments. But when we describe that person’s character, we convey their individuality, their disposition, and their personality. Pondering the contrast between deeds and character has prompted me to ask questions about my own relationship with God. Do I, like the people of Israel, concern myself mainly with his deeds? Or do I, like Moses, concern myself also with God’s character?

Father,

Thank you that our relationship with you can go beyond knowing what you’ve done. We’re thankful that we can get to know who you are. In Jesus’ name, amen.